The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines has partnered with Shopee and LBC Express to offer Guimaras mangoes in a wider online market. This endeavor aims to digitally transform the agri-enterprise sector by assisting local mango farmers to utilize e-commerce, particularly through the Shopee platform, while integrating a reliable logistics network via LBC Express.
DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque stated, "This collaboration will enable Guimaras mangoes to be safely and efficiently delivered to customers nationwide, supporting the digital transformation of local agri-enterprises and enhancing consumer access to high-quality local produce."
The initiative was launched through the DTI's Supply Chain and Logistics Group and Regional Operations Group. It currently includes three sellers live on Shopee, with an additional ten in the process of being onboarded. The program provides technical training, such as "Shopee 101," focusing on account setup, product listing, and fundamental e-commerce strategies for local entrepreneurs. Thirteen participants have attended the training sessions, equipping them with skills essential to succeed in the digital economy.
LBC Express operates as the official fulfillment partner, ensuring that fresh mangoes are delivered in optimal condition. During the ongoing Manggahan Festival, LBC's Guimaras branch is offering discounted shipping rates and exclusive deals to alleviate logistics costs, thus improving profit margins for farmers.
"We recognize the growing potential of e-commerce," remarked Roque. "With full support from President BBM, we are thankful to private sector partners like Shopee and LBC Express for their continued support of DTI initiatives." She emphasized the objective to enhance market access and decrease logistics and transport expenses, benefiting both suppliers and consumers.
Shopee Philippines Head Vincent Lee acknowledged the partnership as a milestone for agricultural modernization, enhancing opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). "We are happy to partner with DTI to help Guimaras mango sellers embrace the digital economy and reach more consumers across the Philippines," noted Lee.
The project aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of a digitally empowered economy, integrating traditional farming communities into the online commerce landscape. Widely recognized for their quality, Guimaras mangoes hold key economic value and are vital to the island's export and tourism sectors. In 2023, Guimaras yielded approximately 11,000 metric tons of mangoes, with over PHP 150 million generated annually from related trade and tourism.
The DTI-SCLG highlighted the potential for replicating this public-private collaboration model in other regions, supporting local producers of high-value agricultural goods within national and regional e-commerce frameworks.
Source: DailyGuardian
